Accelerate TV wrapped up the third edition of its Accelerate Filmmaker Project on Tuesday, 18 June, 2019, with five young filmmakers emerging from the academy after a pitch session.
After one week of intensive training, the winners, also known as ‘The Filmmaker 5’ will be mentored by experienced filmmakers such as Kunle Afolayan who will mentor Tosin Ibitoye; Niyi Akinmolayan to mentor Alfa Farouk Umar; Victor Sanchez to mentor Adetola Films; Kemi Adetiba to mentor Miriam Dera, and Seyi Babatope to mentor Olabisi Akinbinu.
Kicking off the final day of the training, Access Bank’s Group Managing Director, Access Bank Plc., Herbert Wigwe, visited the academy to congratulate the trainees and also wish them luck as they proceed to pitch ideas. Selected filmmakers will shoot their films with support from the mentors and Accelerate TV.
“The world is changing and Nigeria is beginning to pay attention to young creative people. No matter the outcome, I urge everyone to keep telling your stories without fear. Recognize the power in your creativity and prepare to own your position in the industry. You are the only ones who can truly tell our stories, and the world is ready to listen to you. Don’t be scared to make your mark in the filmmaking industry. This is just the beginning,” he emphasized.
Colette Otusheso, Head of Accelerate TV, who announced the winners said, “During the training we were focused on building the talent and skills of our budding filmmakers. As long as you participate, you are all winners, and we completely believe strongly in your abilities. Though only five stories can be selected from the academy, the journey continues, so you have to keep telling our stories”.
Colette also presented the twenty-five participants with certificates while also announcing that the top five ideas will be made into short films by Accelerate TV with support from Access Bank Plc. The films will be screened at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).
See below photos from the Accelerate TV Filmmaker Project:
